PlainPetCare rankings
Most Grooming-Intensive Dog Breeds
All breeds ranked by coat complexity and grooming needs, which dogs require the most maintenance.
- 1.40x
- #1 · Barbet
- 140
- breeds ranked
- 0.80x
- #140 · Xoloitzcuintli
The verdict
According to PlainPetCare coat-complexity model, derived from AKC breed standards (coat type, length, and shedding profile), Barbet tops the list at 1.40x; the #140 cutoff to make this list is 0.80x (Xoloitzcuintli).
- 1.40x
- #1 · Barbet
- 0.80x
- #140, the cutoff to make this list
- 140
- entries ranked
Where the #12 cutoff sits
Complexity across all 140 ranked breeds, not just the 12 shown above
140% 12th of 140 higher than 124 of 140 breeds
all ranked breeds, bucketed by value
Each bar is a band; taller bars hold more breeds. The dashed line + filled bar mark this entry. Hover or tap any bar for its full count and share, and where it sits relative to this entry.
Source PlainPetCare coat-complexity model, derived from AKC breed standards (coat type, length, and shedding profile) · Apr 2026
The full ranking
Source: PlainPetCare coat-complexity model, derived from AKC breed standards (coat type, length, and shedding profile).
How to read this ranking
This table ranks 140 entries in the PlainPetCare dataset by complexity. The gap between the top and bottom of this list spans 0.60x, wide enough that a mid-list entry rarely tracks either pole closely. Rankings like this are most useful read alongside the underlying price ranges on each breed or metro page, the aggregate score hides detail that matters for individual budgeting.
To get the most out of this ranking, click through to any row for the full service-by-service breakdown. Each breed page shows a complete pricing table by size and service type, where real budgeting decisions actually get made. Aggregated ranks are useful for scanning the market; itemised tables are where you plan spend.
Frequently asked questions
What makes a coat "high complexity"?
High-complexity coats have one or more demanding features: long length requiring regular trimming, dense undercoats prone to matting, curly or wire textures that tangle easily, or continuous growth (like Poodle coats) that never stops. Breeds with multiple factors score highest. Double-coated breeds also have seasonal "blowing" periods where shedding intensifies dramatically.
What happens if I skip grooming for a high-maintenance breed?
Skipping grooming for high-maintenance breeds quickly leads to matting, which pulls painfully on the skin, traps moisture and bacteria, can cause skin infections, and hides parasites. Severely matted dogs often require full shave-downs, which can be traumatic and expensive ($150-300+). Regular maintenance is far cheaper and healthier than emergency de-matting.
Explore more rankings
- Compare against the opposite end of the market. See the other side
- Drill into a single entry for the full service-by-service price table. All breeds
- Estimate a full annual pet-care budget for your situation. Annual cost estimator
Related guides
Every figure on PlainPetCare is rendered directly from AKC breed data and industry pet-service pricing surveys, no number is typed in by an editor. This page draws directly on AKC breed data and industry pet-service pricing surveys, no figure is typed in by an editor. See our editorial standards & corrections policy, the methodology behind these numbers, or report a data error.
Sources: PlainPetCare coat-complexity model, derived from AKC breed standards (coat type, length, and shedding profile); the regional index is calibrated to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics regional cost-of-living data (verify with BLS →). Read our methodology.
Disclaimer: Prices are modelled estimates for informational budgeting only and do not constitute professional advice. Confirm with a local provider before making decisions.